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Independent journalist Henry Constantín, director of the magazine La Hora de Cuba, was arrested on the morning of Thursday, December 19, in Havana, one day before the "March of the Fighting People" called by the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, as reported by the outlet itself through its official Facebook account.
More than three hours after his arrest, his whereabouts remain unknown, causing alarm among his colleagues.
According to a report from La Hora de Cuba, Constantín informed before his arrest that two State Security agents were waiting for him outside his building. One of them had reportedly been involved in a previous arrest in September 2023.
"I woke up without a connection and went out to the sidewalk to find it. There, someone approached me (...) and showed me a wallet with identification when I asked who they were," the journalist recounted, quoting the agent's words: "What a terrible memory you have. You need to come with me to talk."
Constantín managed to mention that, although the agent assured that it would be a brief procedure, he decided to prepare a backpack just in case. These were the last statements the team from La Hora de Cuba received before losing contact with him.
The media strongly condemned the arrest, labeling it as "an arbitrary action that reinforces the systematic harassment of independent journalism and freedom of expression."
Henry Constantín has faced repeated reprisals for his journalistic work, including arbitrary detentions, confiscation of equipment, and restrictions on movement. His work has highlighted social and political issues that are generally overlooked by the official media on the island.
This detention raises concerns about the increasing repression by the Cuban regime against dissenting voices, just hours before a planned march, while the country is mired in prolonged blackouts and the population faces an unprecedented fuel crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Detention of Henry Constantín and Repression in Cuba
Why was journalist Henry Constantín arrested in Havana?
Henry Constantín was arrested in Havana by State Security. His detention is part of a pattern of systematic harassment against independent journalism in Cuba. According to La Hora de Cuba, which he directs, this arrest occurred one day before the "March of the Fighting People," suggesting an attempt to silence dissenting voices ahead of government-controlled events.
What is the current situation of press freedom in Cuba?
Press freedom in Cuba is severely restricted. The Cuban government systematically represses independent journalists, employing tactics such as arbitrary detentions, confiscation of equipment, and threats. This repression has intensified with new laws that criminalize the receipt of foreign funding and further limit freedom of expression.
How does the Cuban regime's repression against protesters manifest?
The Cuban regime uses arbitrary detentions and violence to repress protests. Security forces detain demonstrators, often accusing them of crimes such as public disorder. These actions are particularly common during protests over blackouts and other crises, such as fuel shortages, which have heightened social discontent on the island.
What role does State Security play in repression in Cuba?
State Security is a key instrument in the repression of the Cuban regime. This entity conducts constant surveillance, arbitrary detentions, and psychological coercion to silence critics and opponents of the government. Its goal is to maintain control over information and deter any dissent or protest.
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